MEXICAN HO©. 
377 
parts. A gland on the back from which there 
constantly distils a wheyish, fetid liquor,, is the 
most remarkable peculiarity of this species. The 
first Europeans who became acquainted with this 
an i rn ah fancied this gland the navel, preposterous- 
ly disposed bv nature on the back, instead of the 
belly. 
The manners of the Mexican hog are not very- 
different from those of the hogs of Asia and Europe; 
Mexico, and all the warm climates of South Ameri- 
ca, possess numerous herds of this species. Their 
instincts and arms for offence and defence, are 
much the same as those of our hog. They seem 
more social in their dispositions. They are gene- 
rally found associating together in parties. Though 
only an individual be singled out, the whole body 
joins with generous valour against an enemy. They 
grunt with a stronger and harsher voice than the 
hogs of Asia or Europe ; but are scarce ever 
prompted by fear or rage, to squeak in the same 
wild tone. Forests are their favourite haunts; 
they resort not, like our domestic hog, or wild boar, 
to marshes and mires. Fruits, seeds, and roots, 
are their favourite food. They eat also serpents, 
toads, and lizards ; and display great dexterity^ 
in tearing off the skin of those reptiles with their 
feet. 
Their (economy has not been very minutefy 
studied by naturalists. A number of young ones 
are produced at a birth ; and the mother treats 
them with the tenderness and solicitous care of a 
parent. Although .existing chiefly in a wild state, 
they are susceptible of domestication ; but no pains 
can overcome their natural stupidity and indocility. 
The beasts of prey, not less than man, are hostile to 
this species. The American leopard, or Jaguar, 
one of their most formidable enemies, often falls 
amid a herd, after destroying the greatest pari of 
vote II, 3 € 
